Need help designing layout for a new install — thoughts?

[merryoncherry]

Starting to plan out a new show location and would love some input before I commit to wiring and controller placement. House is from the 1930s I think, trying to respect the original design.

Some questions:
1. Do you think this needs a full 3D layout for best sequencing results, or can I get away with 2D given the limited viewing locations and sightlines?
2. Should the moving heads go longways on the roof, or would there be a better placement?
3. Which terrace would make the most sense for a megatree? Would prefer not to break the natural lines too much.
4. Never used a water feature in a show before. Projection mapping feels wrong, but ignoring it feels like a missed opportunity. Curious how others have handled something like this.
5. What fasteners would you use for attaching pixel strips to stucco? I’m worried about spalling on the vertical faces. Would hot glue hold for a single season or is that asking for trouble?
6. Has anyone had luck with suction cups on large glass spans long-term outdoors? Concerned about freeze/thaw cycles and creep.
7. For the stonework, would you go with seed pixels or pebble pixels between the Pottsville sandstone joints? Do they generally stay put or do you need to secure them?
8. I know Cherokee Red varies depending on interpretation, but does anyone have favorite RGB values?
9. Are 5V or 12V pixels better if you are trying to blend in with natural surroundings? Which will look better on a web cam? Any difference in humid environments?
10. Any tips on getting the light to shine through trees? They’re going to block more than I’d like.
11. Any rules of thumb for working on UNESCO World Heritage sites? First time dealing with one, Not sure how strict they are in practice.

Appreciate any thoughts on which is the best controller brand before I start ordering hardware.

 

[Johnnyboy]

In situations like this, first you must ask…. what would frank do
And the answer, invariably, is: “less… but also more… and definitely sideways.”
A few very general thoughts, offered in the spirit of organic illumination rather than actionable advice:

1. 3D vs 2D
   Frank famously believed the plan was just a suggestion and the section was where the truth lived. So naturally, you’ll start in 2D, swear it’s enough, quietly build half a 3D model at 2 a.m., then insist you never needed it.
2. Moving heads on the roof
   Longways, shortways, or spiritually aligned with the stream below, but only if they appear to float. If they look intentionally placed, you’ve already gone too far.
3. Megatree placement
   None of the terraces want a megatree. One of them may tolerate it briefly. Choose the one that will forgive you the fastest.
4. Water feature lighting
   Frank would not project onto water. He would let the water project its feelings onto you. Subtle reflections, accidental magic, and at least one moment where someone says, “Was that on purpose?”
5. Fasteners on stucco
   Anything that can be removed without a trace, or a confession. If your attachment method leaves evidence, Frank is already disappointed.
6. Suction cups on glass
   They will hold perfectly… until they don’t. Much like cantilevers. Much like life.
7. Stonework pixels
   If they nestle naturally, they’ll stay. If they look installed, they’ll escape. Nature has opinions.
8. Cherokee Red RGB values
   The correct value is the one everyone argues about. Bonus points if it changes slightly at sunset.
9. 5 V vs 12 V
   Choose whichever one lets you say, with confidence, “It’s more authentic this way.” Web cams respect confidence.
10. Lighting through trees
    You don’t light trees. You negotiate with them. Expect partial compliance.
11. Working on a UNESCO World Heritage site
    Rule of thumb: if Franz Kafka and a park ranger teamed up to write guidelines, you’re doing it right. Assume eyes are everywhere. Including Frank’s.

As for controller brands, clearly the one that lets you say, “This was all very carefully considered,”.

Please post follow‑up photos. History loves documentation.

 

[Notenoughlights]

Take my approach. Go out at night and if it's dark put lights there. When you have installed lights, go out again when it's dark, and if you see dark spaces, put lights there. Repeat this step over and over.